• Home
  • About
    • A chat with Christina Thomas of Go Epicurista
    • What does Epicurista mean?
  • Blog
  • Let’s Work Together!
    • Contact
    • Disclosure Policy
  • Privacy Policy

Go Epicurista

#MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time! Let's talk great restaurants, one of a kind special events, bucket list foodie travel, easy entertaining tips and recipes.

Let’s Connect!

  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Easy Entertaining Recipes
  • Go Travel & Dine Orlando
  • Go Travel & Dine The World
  • Epicurista Tips
  • Entertainment

Cheesy White Party Guide

By Christina Thomas Leave a Comment

White Party Cheese & Drink Pairings and Tips for a casual picnic or chic gathering!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Looking for ideas to host a fun white party or picnic? Read along for tips to keep the entertaining easy, and the party epic. The white theme helps to keep it simple or go all out. Your choice.

I recently hosted a “Cheesy White Party” in partnership with VisitCheeselandia.com and Wisconsin Cheese and the night was fueled by cheese, bubbles and laughter. If you’re a cheese lover, you’ll especially love the cheese and beverage pairings. But there’s something for everyone here.

Let’s get this Cheesy White Party started!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Easy Entertaining with Cheese

Entertaining at home shouldn’t be a daunting task. Pick a date and Make Someday Happen! Who cares if the house is a mess. We were in the middle of home renovations and rather than wait, we incorporated our home decorating into the theme of the night. The result was a fun and relaxed evening with a bit of hilarious discussion. Deciding on the perfect paint color is no easy task!

As far as food and drinks, there’s no easier way to make a party epic than a big cheese board with a variety of treats to accompany them. The diverse selection of cheeses enhanced the interaction as everyone picked their favorite cheese, treat and beverage combination.

Have you ever taken a bite of fig, blue cheese and walnut all at once? Followed by a nice sip of champagne? Decadent!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Read on for white party menu ideas, cheese and beverage pairings, and decor tips for easy entertaining at home. I promise it will be fun!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Join me for an epic Cheesy White Party!
Thank you Lisa of TasteCookSip.com for this photo

Travel Inspiration: Cheeselandia (aka Wisconsin) & Diner en Blanc (Paris)

I draw inspiration from travel when entertaining at home and this “Cheesy White Party” was doubly inspired by two epic foodie events and destinations I wish to visit.

The “Cheesy” inspiration comes from one of the most over the top cheese displays I’ve seen – ever! (and I’ve been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years.) The “Visit Cheeselandia” industry event hosted by Wisconsin Cheese welcomed cheese loving guests to travel to Cheeselandia – an imaginary magical land of cheese. Imagine having your choice of dozens of cheeses with every sort of accompaniment you can think of!

The event was catered by the team of Swine & Sons in Winter Park and their housemade charcuterie, pates, pickled veggies and more were the perfect complement to the delicious cheeses.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Epic Foodie Travel (@goepicurista) on Jan 20, 2019 at 7:49am PST

I was thrilled to be chosen a Visit Cheeselandia Ambassador. My duties? To host an epic cheese party and share with friends. A beautiful box of cheeses and party goodies arrived at my door. What came next was a fun night with friends.

“Cheeselandia is a magical manifestation of what makes Wisconsin wonderful. It’s a state of mind and state of mouth that brings the warm hospitality of Wisconsin to your home.”

The comment heard repeatedly throughout the night was the same I had on my first Visit Cheeselandia experience: “I had no idea Wisconsin had such a variety of delicious cheeses.” They’ve been making cheese for over 175 years, so I’ve added a visit to the Wisconsin Cheese dairy farmers to my “someday list.” I bet they host the most epic cheesy parties ever!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Go Epicurista and Visit Cheeselandia – perfect pair!
Photo by Lisa Wilk of TasteCookSip.com

The “White Party” aspect of the night was inspired by another epic event – Le Diner en Blanc. The all-white chic picnic has been hosted in cities around the globe for over 30 years. I had a chance to attend twice in Orlando and get a taste of this labor-intensive yet over the top experience. Attending Diner en Blanc at its original location is on my ‘someday list’ Could you imagine an epic all white party in Paris, France!?

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Diner en Blanc goes all out with chic set up!

White Party Cheese & Beverage Pairings

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to cheese and beverage pairings. Have fun with it. Drink what you like. And if you’re not sure about pairings, open a bottle of champagne because bubbles go with everything.

When choosing accompaniments and beverage pairings for cheeses, I like to think of things that often go together (like apples and cheddar) as well as things that are opposites (like sweet and smoky flavors). Check out my Epic Cheese and Wine pairing tips here.

You want a good mix of cheeses on your board – from young to aged, soft to hard, mild to pungent. The selection below worked well together.

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Check your grocer’s cheese case or ask your favorite cheese shop owner for help. La Femme de Fromage in East End Market is a wonderful resource. Whole Foods Market and Earth Fare also carry a nice selection of cheeses. Get some info on each cheese to share with your guests. The cheese and wine geeks in the room will love it!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Do I have your attention? We’re talking cheese and beverage pairings.

Wisconsin Cheeses:

Salemville Smokehaus Blue:

This extra creamy, applewood smoked blue cheese has a sweet and slightly smoky flavor. It was the top hit of the night, even for those who don’t normally go for the “stinky” blue cheeses. The smokiness cuts through the pungency of the blue cheese so nicely. My friend Anna-Marie shared her thoughts on BeautyandTheBeets.com.

  • Accompaniments: I served it with sliced fresh pears, walnuts, dried figs and dates.
  • Beverage pairing: I chose a sweet sparkling pear cider as well as Italian prosecco. Apple cider or a fruity spritzer are perfect non-alcoholic options. For a fancier spread, go for a Sauterne dessert wine. A sticky port wine was recommended but I wanted to stay away from red wines for this white party.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Deer Creek Vat 17 World Cheddar:

This bold and complex cheese is a far cry from what most of us know as cheddar. It was my top favorite of the night with its tangy nuttiness and hard crumbly texture.

  • Accompaniments: The folks from Wisconsin Cheese recommend mustard to bring out the umami flavors. I served wasabi peas as well as pistachios to add a bit of fun. The piquante notes of wasabi are very similar to mustard. Sliced fresh apples add a touch of freshness.
  • Beverage pairing: a crisp hard apple cider did the trick.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Roelli Cheese Haus – Red Rock

This is an American style, naturally bloomy rinded cheddar cheese with a slight blue vein. Richly colored with annatto and cave aged to maturity, it packs mild flavor with a creamy texture. It was the most surprising cheese of the night. The color and blue vein lead you to expect a strong flavor but it had a very nice balance depending on your bite.

  • Accompaniments: dried apricots are not too sweet to distract. Plus the pop of orange color looked great on the board.
  • Beverage pairing: a fruity saison style beer and apple cider were both complementing.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Yellow Door Creamery Monteau:

Aged 120 days, this semi-hard cheese delivers the perfect balance of taste with intense fruity flavors and a hit of butter and hazelnut.

  • Accompaniments: green grapes and a variety of nuts including Macadamia nuts to complement the buttered brioche flavors.
  • Beverage pairing: an oaked Chardonnay was lovely. A fruity sangria would have been nice too.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

La Bottega Di Belgioioso Artigiano Aged Balsamic & Cipollini Onion

Once aged to perfection, cheesemakers flavor Artigiano Classico with tangy balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy and sweet cipollini onions from Calabria. The best way to eat this cheese is with the rind so you get all the flavors.

  • Accompaniments: To capitalize on the Italian connection I served an assortment of Italian charcuterie – Prosciutto, Sopressata, and hard salami. The saltiness of the meats complements the sweetness of the cheese.
  • Beverage pairing: Italian prosecco kept it light and fruity. A bold Sangiovese would be nice too.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

Cheesy White Party Menu Ideas

Cheese plays well with others… don’t serve it by itself. As you saw above, each cheese has epic friends to serve along side it.

White Party Appetizers & Hearty Dishes

I focused on colors as much as possible when choosing my menu to stay within a white and light palate. Yellow and orange added pops of color while keeping it as monochromatic as possible.

  • Veggie Crudite Platter: crisp, fresh veggies add a nice contrast to the creamy cheeses. I used yellow and orange heirloom cherry tomatoes, tri-color heirloom baby carrots, celery sticks, baby cucumbers, cauliflower florets, jicama, yellow and orange sweet bell peppers, and baby artichoke hearts.
  • Dips: Mediterranean Herbs Hummus, White Bean Dip, and Yogurt Dips (such as a French Onion Greek Yogurt Dip)
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Simple and delicious!
Photo by Lisa Wilk of TasteCookSip.com
  • Charcuterie board: choose a variety of meats such as prosciutto, assorted salami, and Sopressata. Keep them on a separate board especially if you have any vegetarian guests.
  • Assorted crackers and chips such as kettle chips, wasabi peas, mini pretzels, and breadsticks.
  • Assorted Nuts: Marcona almonds, raw almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, Macadamia nuts, and candied pecans.
  • Assorted olives and pickled veggies
  • For a heartier dish, I prepared a super easy Shrimp Pasta Salad. Toss farfalle bowtie pasta with shrimp, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, fresh basil, mint, and a mix of veggies such as sweet peppers, asparagus, and arugula. Top with crumbled feta cheese. It was so good I made extra and had leftovers for lunch.
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

White Party Desserts:

White party desserts are so easy. Stroll down the candy and bulk aisle of your grocery store. Anything covered in white chocolate or yogurt is perfect for a white dessert board. I also did a white trail mix for a fun snack. White desserts from your favorite bakery can be as simple as cupcakes or as fancy as a trifle or pavlova. You can also do what I did, and make rice krispie treats!

  • White Trail Mix: cashews, macadamia nuts, walnuts, coconut flakes, white chocolate chips and golden raisins.
  • White Desserts Board: Yogurt dipped pretzels, White Chocolate mini Kit Kat Bars, White Chocolate mini Reese’s, Mini Marshmallows, toffee candies, caramels, Rafaello White chocolate truffles.
  • Rice Krispy Treats: I haven’t made these since college. They were a big hit! I topped the gooey treat with Heath bar toffee chips and that instantly upped the fancy factor.
  • Meringues, Sugar Cookies and White Cupcakes are easy too!
Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
Toffee Rice Krispies – yum!

Cheesy White Party Decor Tips

Keep it simple and clean with fresh white flowers. Candles, natural wood and metallic gold and silver accents work well too. Don’t stress out about decor. The attendees of Diner en Blanc definitely go all out but you don’t have to, if you don’t want to. I scattered paint chip cards from Home Depot on my tables. Talk about easy and free!

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com

One of the reasons I chose to throw a white party was because I bought a white couch. It’s rather “grown up” and I’m a bit apprehensive about the possibilities for stains since we practically eat every meal in the living room. Having a group of friends over to enjoy food and drinks on the couch was the best way to break it in and make it feel “livable”. Of course, the white foods and drinks (read – lack of red wine anywhere!) made it easier to let go and enjoy.

As I mentioned before, we’re in the process of home renovations and rather than wait until the house was perfect and done, we used the opportunity to get our friends input and decide on a paint color for the walls. My mission is to #MakeSomedayHappen after all! So go for it!

Have you ever tried to decide on the right white and tan color? It’s madness! I can’t say if everyone’s opinions helped but it definitely made the night much more interactive. I think color #4 had the most votes. What do you think?

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
In the middle of home renovations, let’s have a party!
Let me know, which color would you choose?

Are you inspired to host your own Cheesy White Party? I hope these tips help. Check out the Wisconsin Cheese selection in your grocery store and have fun with it.

For more inspiration, my friend and wine & cheese educator Lisa Wilk of TasteCookSip.com “Traveled the world, one Wisconsin cheese at a time!” for her Cheeselandia party. Check it out. It was a very ‘gouda’ party!

Got any other menu ideas to fit the white theme? Share in the comments and tag your photos on Facebook and Instagram with @goepicurista and #MakeSomedayHappen. I love to see your epic celebrations!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Host an Easy Cheesy White Party with cheese and drink pairings, menu and decor tips perfect for a casual picnic or chic gathering. Content by GoEpicurista.com
PIN THIS FOR LATER!

Disclosure: I have been hosted as a media guest for promotional purposes. I am under no obligation to share this post. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to safely get together with family and friends, celebrate life, and go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip, and trip at a time!  You can read more about my guidelines in my disclosure policy. Cheers!

Related

Sharing is caring!

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Filed Under: Easy Entertaining Recipes

Want more information like this?

Get the latest updates and don't miss out on the Go Epicurista Insider Experience!

About Christina Thomas

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Meet your Chief Epicurista

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista! Find out more...

Are you ready to GO Epicurista?

Get the latest updates delivered to your mailbox and don't miss out on the GO Epicurista Insider Experience!

No spam ever!

DON’T MISS THESE POSTS!

  • Best Easter Brunch in Orlando
    Best Easter Brunch in Orlando
  • Frosted Frozen Grapes Take Any Party To The Next Level
    Frosted Frozen Grapes Take Any Party To The Next Level
  • Best Sports Bars in Orlando with Great Food and Fun
    Best Sports Bars in Orlando with Great Food and Fun
  • Where To Get Easter To Go in Orlando
    Where To Get Easter To Go in Orlando
  • Must Eat in New York: Russ and Daughters
    Must Eat in New York: Russ and Daughters
  • Craft Mocktails from Tapa Toro Orlando
    Craft Mocktails from Tapa Toro Orlando
  • Downton Abbey: A New Era Movie Inspired Dinner Party Menu and Travel Fans Will Love
    Downton Abbey: A New Era Movie Inspired Dinner Party Menu and Travel Fans Will Love
  • Four Seasons Heats Up Orlando Sunday Brunch Scene
    Four Seasons Heats Up Orlando Sunday Brunch Scene
  • Rose Moscato Citrus Spritzer
    Rose Moscato Citrus Spritzer
  • Easy Afternoon Tea Party Guide
    Easy Afternoon Tea Party Guide

Topics

  • Easy Entertaining Recipes
  • Go Travel & Dine Orlando
  • Go Travel & Dine The World
  • Epicurista Tips
  • Entertainment

CK Mondavi Ambassador

CK Mondavi Ambassador

Proud to be a 2022 CK Mondavi Ambassador! Follow #CKMondaviAmbassador and #CKMondaviWines for recipes and wine pairing tips.

Follow On The Gram

goepicurista

Cheers to #NationalCocktailDay at Orlando’s OG D Cheers to #NationalCocktailDay at Orlando’s OG Dedicated Cocktail Bar! @thecourtesy in Winter Park!
The cocktail menu changes frequently but you can’t go wrong with any of them. Let the mixologists recommend a cocktail based on your spirit of choice. 
Here are a few favorites:
🥃 Tourist Season: American Whiskey, Pineapple Rum, Smoked Honey, Vango Tobacco Bitters (A tropical Old Fashioned!)
🍹 Deku Tree: Gin, Aloe, Midori, Lemon, Mint, Angostura, Honey (Refreshing melon gin cocktail!)
🍹 Daydreamer: Vodka, Spiced Cranberry, Lemon, Elderflower Tonic (Holiday in a glass!)
🥃 Rotating Clarified Milk Punch: Ask for the day’s creation!
🍸 Serious Delirium: Tequila, Averna, Chicory, Falernum, Orange Bitters, Foxtail Cold Brew (next-level espresso martini!) - not currently on menu but just ask for their current espresso cocktail
Also, don’t miss the fab @bar.swine bar bites!! Cheers to the weekend and to a great cocktail! What’s your drink of choice?
Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #TheCourtesyBar #LoveOrlando
Chocolate + Caramel + Choulala = Fabuleux. Absolum Chocolate + Caramel + Choulala = Fabuleux. Absolument Fabuleux! 💕
Stop by @choulalapastries in Winter Park & celebrate #NationalChocolateCaramelDay 
Isn’t this fabulous?
Here’s what we ordered:
🍫 Twix Bar Caramel: vanilla tart shell filled with caramel sauce & caramel pastry cream topped with chocolate glaze & edible gold flake! So decadent!
🍪 NEW: Caramel Turtle Chocolate Chip Cookie made with brown butter cookie dough with caramel bits, pecans & Hershey’s chocolate chips. @chefstephsteph did it again! It’s scrumptious!  C’est si bon! 
🍮 Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puff: Their most popular signature pâte à chou dough filled with vanilla bean French pastry cream, topped with burnt caramel chantilly cream & gold sprinkles. Epic!
🍫 Dark Chocolate Macaron filled with rich dark chocolate ganache. Yum!
🥂 Pair your Choulala pastries with a glass of bubbles! They offer Prosecco and Sparkling Rose
⏰ Choulala Park Avenue is now open Tuesday - Sunday 
🍾 Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday offering half-priced bubbles, craft beers and floats from 7pm-9pm.
🥐 Don’t miss Dessert Happy Hour every Sunday from 8p-9p, all pastries are 50% off!
Get your besties and go! #MakeSomedayHappen 
Follow @GoEpicurista for more! 
#GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #WinterParkFL
Highlights of 3 Days in Portland, Oregon! As a P Highlights of 3 Days in Portland, Oregon! 
As a Portland girl living in Orlando, here are some favorite Must Eat, See & Do in PDX
✈️ @alaskaair non-stop @flymco MCO to PDX (7:20am - gorgeous sunrise!)
📷 @pdxairport carpet (IYKYK 😉)
🍩 @pipsoriginal - Best Chai Flight & Mini Donuts. Don’t miss Flavor of The Month! (March-Coconut Custard. Yum!)
📚 @mcmenamins Kennedy School - super cool bars/restaurant/hotel/movie theater/brewery in a revamped elementary school from 1915!
Get cocktails in the old cafeteria or Detention Bar! 🤪
☕️ Coffee Nudge cocktail with Housemade High Council Brandy & Edgefield Coffee Liqueur was epic!
🍖 @thaifarmhousepdx - fantastic Thai food in Downtown Portland. Don’t miss Crab Fried Rice & 24-Hr Beef Noodle Soup
🌱 @dailyfuelpdx - best vegan / plant-based Nachos & Bowls I’ve ever had! 
☕️ @hubers.portland.or - Portland’s oldest restaurant since 1879. Cool history & Best Spanish Coffees! The show is 🔥 
🥑 @proudmaryusa - my favorite avocado toast & coffee! 
🛞 @cartopiafoodcarts - OG Eastside PDX food cart pod since 2008! 
🥔 @potato_champion - best fries & poutine! Get the housemade mushroom gravy and don’t skip the sauces on your fries. Curry ketchup is 😘 
🇬🇷 @tahrirsquarepdx - Eat Like An Egyptian!  OG cart! We got the mezze and grilled salmon. So good!
🚗 Rent car from @drivekyte - super easy, great service, deliver & pick up car to your location! My first time using and loved it! DM for discount code. 
What To Do between meals: 
🌁 Drive around & take in the views! lots to see. Unique architecture, gorgeous mountains & all the bridges into downtown are so cool!
🏃🏻‍♀️ Hike Mt. Tabor or Forest Park (largest urban forest!)
🚶🏻‍♀️ Walk around artsy neighborhoods & check out @pdxstreetart 
📕 Visit @powellsbooks largest independent bookstore in the country
📍 Next: road trip to @traveldundee wine tasting in Willamette Valley!
Follow @goepicurista & #MakeSomedayHappen
Tagged some of my favorite PDX creators. I always try new spots when I come back to visit family thanks to them! And 💕 Thanks @tastecooksip for being a great travel partner
(Not sponsored) 
#GoEpicPDX #ThisisPortland @travelportland
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ The Mighty St. P Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ The Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival at @raglanroadpub in @disneysprings is my favorite spot in Orlando to celebrate all weekend long! Here are 17 of my Must Eat & Drink items on the menu I always recommend. The fantastic entertainment with Raglan Road Dancers and musicians straight from Ireland only adds to the ‘craic’! 
STARTERS:
☘️ BOARD OF BEAUTY: An Irish Egg, Dalkey Duo, Bang Bang’s chicken, and Beef in Bed all on one beautiful board to share!
☘️ NOM NOM WINGS: Sweet ‘n’ spicy wings in honey, chili flake, soy & ginger sauce
☘️ KISS BEFORE SHRIMP: Pan-seared shrimp in a garlic and chili lemon butter 
ENTREES:
☘️ GNOCCHI SEA GNOCCHI DO: Handmade potato gnocchi, seared Foley’s Georges Bank scallops, crispy pork belly, tomatoes & kale in white wine butter sauce
☘️ LET THERE BE NO RUSH PORK: 12-hour slow braised pork shoulder, champ mashed potato, sautéed cabbage with crispy bacon, carrot puree, apple cider jus
☘️ SHEPHERD’S TO DIE FOR PIE
Braised and pulled beef & lamb with root vegetables in a rich red wine jus with Irish peat smoked mashed potato
DESSERTS: 
☘️ GER’S BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING: enough said! Just try it!
☘️ FLUFFY LEMON CLOUDS: Intense lemon curd tart with fluffy meringue
BRUNCH (SAT & SUN)
☘️ IT’S OK TO DROOL: Ger’s Bread & Butter pudding French toast style with vanilla mascarpone, mixed berries, hazelnut crunch, crispy maple glazed bacon
DRINKS:
☘️ THE LOST IRISH COFFEE 
☘️ ROSEMARY & MAPLE WHISKEY SOUR: Dickel 12 Tennessee Whisky, crushed rosemary, dark maple syrup, Fees foam, Lemon Sour
☘️ IRISH ESPRESSO MARTINI: Slane Irish Whiskey, J.F. Hadens espresso liqueur,
Guinness simple syrup, chilled espresso
☘️ ICED IRISH: Paddy’s Irish whiskey, butterscotch, Baileys Salted Caramel, cold brew coffee, whipped cream
☘️ IT’S A HELL OF A HOOLEY: Minke Irish Vodka, Muddled Raspberry’s, Lemon Sour, House made Rosemary Syrup, Fees Foam, Prosecco
Check out @raglanroadpub for all the details of this weekend’s festivities including food and drink specials! Say hi to owners Paul and John when you see them. Super nice guys! 
Sláinte!
Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando
OREO YOU HAVING FUN YET?! Here are a few of my fav OREO YOU HAVING FUN YET?! Here are a few of my favorite Oreo treats around Orlando to celebrate #NationalOreoDay 🎉
🍦 @kellyshomemadeicecream - Locations around town, I visited my neighborhood fave at @foxtailhunterscreek 
• Ore-Dough Ice Cream (signature flavor) can’t beat cookies & cream and cookie dough combined!!! 💕 
• Salted Caramel Oreo (March limited time flavor)😘 
🍪 @gideonsbakehouse - Disney Springs, East End Market
• Cookies & Cream Cookie (signature flavor)
• Valentina Cake - red velvet & cookies n cream (signature flavor)
• Frankenstein Cookie (Limited Time /October) 
• Frankenstein Cake (Limited Time /October) 💕
🍩 @smokeanddonuts - Milk District
• Nutty Panda Donut: Nutella Buttercream, Oreos
• S’Moreo Donut: marshmallow, Oreos, Chocolate Chips 💕
• Cheepees Donut: vanilla glaze, Oreos, Chocolate Chips 
🍩 @everglazed_fl - Disney Springs
• Cookies & Cream Donut 😍
🍸 @wyndhamgrandorl Bar 1521 - Bonnet Creek
• Pharmacy Froth Cocktail (recipe in stories / may not be on the menu but ask the friendly bartender)
Have a sweet double stuffed week! 💕
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoepicOrlando #OreoDay #LoveOrlando
Time to reintroduce a local icon! 🔥 Congrats Ch Time to reintroduce a local icon! 🔥 Congrats Chef IanRussell, Juliana Peña & @smokeanddonuts team! 🔥
The new brick & mortar location of Orlando BBQ & Donut fave food truck is officially OPEN in @themilkdistrict at 601 N. Primrose Drive.
🔥 THE SMOKE: Chef Ian’s award-winning BBQ including smoked USDA Prime Brisket, Carolina Pulled Pork, Brown Butter Turkey Breast, Bama/Carolina Pulled Chicken, & more scratch-made side dishes. Don’t miss the awesome sandwiches, corn fritters, brown butter green beans & stuffed mac & cheese!
🍩 THE DONUTS: Better than ever! Try fun new cake donut creations as well as all the favorite classics taken to a whole new level by pastry chef Brett Vezina! 
❤️ 🔥 The Signature Donut with the logo disc on top features blood orange glaze, champagne sabayon & S&D meringue.
🥃 THE BAR: Yes! they have a full bar! How about a Smoked Old Fashioned? Go for Happy Hour weekdays 3pm-6pm
Support Orlando Local & Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #TheMilkDistrict #SmokeandDonuts #LoveOrlando
“You do not find a happy life, you make it!” “You do not find a happy life, you make it!” 
I spent one of the best days ever at Discovery Cove! It was my first visit to this one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, tropical day resort in Orlando, and it won’t be my last! I’m planning a return soon because they have a fantastic special happening now! (See below)
Admission includes: 
🍽️ Unlimited Buffet Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
🍹 Unlimited Beer & Wine, (add the Premium Drink Package for $40!)
🤿 Swim & snorkel with rays & tropical fish
🐦 Hand-feed exotic birds
🏊‍♀️ Drift along the Wind-Away River
🏖️ Relax on sandy beaches
😎 Chill in the sand-bottom pool with drink in hand (we did this most of the day!) it was glorious!
🚿 Wetsuits, masks, snorkel, lockers, & showers 
🐬 Swim with dolphins experience (for additional fee)
Stay tuned for more about the delicious new Caribbean menu and cocktails at Hibiscus Hideaway & Blue Bamboo Bar, all-new food and beverage outlets. I was very impressed with their Food & Beverage program. 
Highly recommend this experience for locals and visitors. The entire day felt like a true vacation! 
💥 Limited time offer: Florida residents save 30% on their 2023 visits and out of state guests save 20% on a Signature Dolphin Swim Package. You can visit anytime in 2023 based on availability but must book by 3/12/23. Options for packages with admission to @seaworldorlando @aquaticaorlando & @bushgardenstampa available 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
(hosted) @DiscoveryCove 
#GoEpicOrlando #DiscoveryCove #LoveOrlando
Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you getting your caffeine & brunch fix this weekend?
@barniescoffeeandtea flagship cafe in Park Avenue, Winter Park has now re-opened with a brighter modern look, new breakfast, lunch & brunch menu, and new coffee blends. Go check it out! 
I was invited to a preview and loved doing a coffee tasting of 4 blends with Christian, Barnie’s head coffee roaster. My favorite was the Guatemala Gehsa with citrus, cocoa nibs and orange blossom notes. We also sampled new menu items. Don’t miss the Shakshuka & the Popovers!
Here’s what we sampled:
☕️ Coffee:
✨Barnie’s Cafe Blend
✨Guatemala Gehsa
✨Birthday Cake Batter (notes of vanilla sprinkles)
✨UCF Pegasus Blend (notes of chocolate & caramel!) yum! 
> I couldn’t resist getting a latte even though it was 6pm! 🤣 Barista Renata did a fab vanilla latte! 
🍳 Breakfast:
✨ Signature Popovers
✨French Toast with fresh truit
✨Shakshuka with poached egg
✨Seasonal Quiche
🥪 Lunch:
✨Cuban Sandwich
✨Roasted BeetSalad
Did you know Barnie’s is Orlando’s original coffee shop? It opened right here in Winter Park in 1980!
Go support local! #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #barniescoffeeandtea #orlandocoffee
Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride games at @exploriastadium just got a whole lot tastier!
Five #OrlandoMade local restaurants are now permanent concessions vendors so you can tame your hunger with the best local tacos, hot dogs, BBQ, Chicken & Burgers in Orlando! 
Thank you Exploria Stadium for inviting me to the media preview. Can’t wait to go cheer on our 2022 US Open Champions at the season opener this Saturday!
Here’s a preview of what we sampled: 
🌮 BLACK ROOSTER TAQUERIA - Chicken Tinga Taco on Flour Tortilla, w. lettuce, radish, cotija cheese, cilantro. Love those tacos! It was nice to see owner Juliana Calloway and Chief Tasting Officer Ryder Calloway dancing! 🕺🏻 @blkroostertaco 🙌🏼
📍 The Wall / Section 24
🌭 HARRELL’S HOT DOGS - Orlando City Stadium Dog features a Nathan’s Hot Dog topped with House Red Onion Sauce, Sauerkraut & Sport Peppers and finished with a Spicy Brown Mustard. Nice to meet owners Drew & David Cardaci! @_whats.up.dog_ 🙌🏼
📍 Section 30
🍖 4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE - Orlando’s favorite Pulled Pork Sandwich! Didn’t get to see owner John Rivers did you know you can now pick up 4R sauces & spices at Publix?! @4riverssmokehouse 🙌🏼
📍 Section 31
🐓 THE COOP by 4Rivers - Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders with 4R BBQ sauce @thecoop_wp 🙌🏼
📍 Section 9
🍔 TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL - Drunken Monk Burger with Smoked Bacon, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Cherry Tomotoes, house-made Angry Orchard Onion Jam, on Herb Mayo & Melted White Cheddor on a Pretzel Bun with Teak Chips. Best Burger in Orlando!  It was so nice to meet owner Jon Proechel after all these years of being a fan of their epic burgers! @teakneighborhoodgrill 🙌🏼
📍 Section 18
🍹MANE-GO MARGARITA - In The Wild Margarita with @camarenatequila - super tasty! 
⭐️ FYI - A Rotating Vendor Cart will feature @cholodogs & @sushieatstation among others 
⚽️ Will you be at the season opener this Saturday? 
#VamosOrlando Let’s Go! #ManEveryWall 💜 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ThingsToDoinOrlando
Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉 This is “NOT E Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉
This is “NOT EVERYONE’S MARGARITA” -  But it is mine! Made with Vida Mezcal, Cuervo Traditional Plata Tequila, Jalapeño, Creme de Mure, House Sour, & Black Salt. Epic! 
📍 Go get yours at @paddlefishorl in @disneysprings
Cheers! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalD Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay 🥂
Here’s my 3 Favorite Wine Bars in Orlando: 
🍷 @quantumleapwinery - Orlando’s only sustainable winery & cidery, located in Mills 50 District. Try Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend & don’t miss the @thetastytrio “Wine, Cheese & Chocolate”events. 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen - fantastic boutique wines & Italian / Brazilian shareable plates in a charming intimate setting, located in Winter Park. Be sure to ask owner Fabio for his recommendations! 
🍷 @winebargeorge - Orlando’s only Master Sommelier owned restaurant with over 160 wines by the glass, bottle & ounce, located in Disney Springs. Say hi to somm genius George Miliotes and don’t miss their fab boards & wines from around the globe! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoWine #loveOrlando
Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” on Saturday 2/18! 
@kellyshomemadeicecream has created special breakfast-themed ice cream flavors for this annual International Childhood Cancer Awareness event
Order a cup, cone or shake or better yet, get an Ice Cream Flight & try all four! 
🥞 Blueberry Pancake (My favorite!)
🥣 Breakfast Buddies
🥓 Maple Bourbon Bacon
💥 Cinnamon Crunch
🗓️ When: Saturday February 18th, 9am-11am
📍 Where: All Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shops and participating Counters 
💰 50% of sales during breakfast will be donated to @gktwvillage 
🍦 “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” was created in 2013 in honor of Malia Grace, by her mom and aunt after she lost her battle with cancer in 2010. Malia Grace loved ice cream and her family wanted to commemorate her birthday, 2/18, in a way that would be fitting for her. During her wish trip at Give Kids The World, she had the opportunity to eat ice cream for breakfast and it was a highlight of the family’s experience. 
🌎 Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit in Central Florida that provides critically ill children and their families with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost. Every wish family is treated to accommodations, transportation, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, and more. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 182,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries.
Stop by Kelly’s and pick up these awesome flavors! But, regardless of where you are, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast in honor of Malia, and raise awareness for those who battle childhood cancer. 💛
#GoEpicOrlando #eaticecreamforbreakfastday #kellyshomemadeicecream #kellysicecream #orlandoicecream
Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire & passion to your life, head to @gideonsbakehouse for their Eternal Flame Cookie & Cake. They are 🔥in the best way!
🍰 Eternal Flame Cake is a 3-Layer Double Frosted Chocolate work of art! Red Cherry Buttercream layers and Chocolate Fudge Buttercream mixed with a bit of that Eternal Flame spice on the outer layer. Not too spicy and absolutely decadent! Pair it with a nice bold red wine!
🍪 Eternal Flame Chocolate Cookie packs a nice kick laced with house-made Ancho, Cayenne, and Cinnamon Spice Mix, infused with a magical essence of cherry and topped with Chocolate Covered Cherries. 
❤️ For a limited time, a special version of the Eternal Flame cookie without the spice mix is available too! (Check Gideon’s IG for details)
📍 Available only in February at Gideon’s in East End Market & Disney Springs
Go celebrate with the best cookies and cakes on the planet!
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #ValentinesDayTreat
For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookew For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookewp and pick up the best treats for your sweetie and besties 💕
A few of my favorites: 
🍓 Chocolate Covered Strawberries (require advanced order)
❤️ “Jami Choo’s” Chocolate Shoes
💋 Assorted Truffles (loved the red lips!)
♥️ Chocolate Covered Popcorn! 
💖 Baskets with a variety of treats! (Don’t miss the Chocolate Covered Oreos, Cat Tails & Cookies)
☎️ Call the shop to reserve a basket for quick pick up at (407) 644-3200. They’re open regular hours today & 7AM -11:15PM on Valentine’s Day!
🍓 Thank you to Peterbrooke’s creative Cupid chocolatiers for these gorgeous berries! 
#GoEpicOrlando #PeterbrookeWP #winterparkfl
Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day & Valentine’s Day is with the best French pastries in Orlando! 
Thank you @chefstephsteph for these epic @choulalapastries 💕
Pre-order and pick up at either Choulala Park Avenue and 436 location! You’re going to want to get all of this! 
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT BOX!
Chef Steph created an epic gourmet assortment of Valentine’s Day delights perfect to share:
💋 (1) Lychee Rose French Kiss Entremet
♥️ (2) Conversation Heart Vanilla Macarons
💝 (2) Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs!
“I LOVE CHOU” BOX includes:
❤️ Passion Fruit, Raspberry & Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs
♥️ Red Velvet, Lavender & Conversation Heart Macaron
❤️ Strawberry Eclair
I also picked up these gorgeous heart shaped entremets:
💜 Exotique: Passion Fruit & Coconut 
💖 Sweeties: Strawberry & Chocolate Brownie
Go enjoy the sweetest Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day #MakeSomedayHappen 
📍Choulala Park Avenue is open regular hours Saturday & Sunday, closed Mon, but will open special hours on V-Day Tuesday 11a-8p.
📍Choulala 436 open regular hours including 10-5pm V- Day
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #ChoulalaPastries #Galentines #ValentinesTreats
It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking ab It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking about is Hot Garlic Knots from @official_pizza_bruno 
Have you tried these?  They are a #MustEat in Orlando!
Look for the lit “Hot Knots Now!” sign! 🔥 And, when you think there isn’t enough garlic... there’s more! 🧄 🍕 
Go get some!
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #MakeSomedayHappen
💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favori 💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favorite foodie experiences of 2022 was dining at Salt & The Cellar by Michelin Chef Akira Back and spending the night at the new @ettehotel - a gorgeous boutique hotel with impeccable attention to detail! I even got to meet @chefakiraback 
So excited I’m going back tonight to check out their new Lipa Rooftop Bar & Restaurant and have reservations for Afternoon Tea next month! 
Add a visit to ette hotel to your Foodie Bucket List for 2023! 
A few favorites from my last visit:
🍸 Fantastic Zero-Proof Cocktails by @jarldevries: It’s Dry January all year long! Featured first is The Kraken, a gorgeous purple cocktail made with Butterfly Pea Flower Tea & Champagne Vinegar
✨ Toro Tartare: A gorgeous board with fatty tuna and accompaniments
✨ Akira Back Tuna Pizza: his famous dish is a Must Eat! 
✨ Spinach Oshitashi Salad: the most gorgeous salad I’ve ever seen! 
✨ NY Strip with Wasabi Kizami Butter, Chimichurri Sauce, & choice of gourmet salts. Amazing! Loved that Espresso salt
✨ Miso Black Cod, yuzu air, pickled cauliflower 
✨ Togarashi Fries & Kimchi Brussels
✨ Dessert: Yuzu Curd and Chocolate in a Cup
☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
💜 The lobby decor with lavender and green touches was dreamy.
🧺 They have a Laundry Museum! 
📕 The Book Room features incredible books. The giant picture book requires gloves to review as it is one of a few in the world! 
The hotel is focused on wellness and offers Wellness Suites completely equipped with a full gym! 
Make plans to dine at @saltandthecellarbyakiraback and stay at @ettehotel and GO #MakeSomedayHappen
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #ettehotel #saltandthecellarbyakiraback #experiencekissimmee #LoveOrlando
Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool you. The Kappo Bar Omakase experience with Chef Lewis Lin is out of this world (& Michelin-worthy!)
“irasshaimase / come in!” is what you hear first upon entering this revamped Pizza Hut building off Colonial Drive. Everyone is welcome at Juju, one of Orlando’s newest restaurants and one that belongs on every #OrlandoFoodie bucket list! 
I was invited to experience their Kappo Bar and it checked all the boxes for a truly amazing #MakeSomedayHappen experience.
The retro Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serves up a 10-course menu at the bar and a more casual a la carte menu in the dining room. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
You want something. Go Get It. Period!
This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
What if my 2023 resolution is to visit Gideon’s every month for their awesome limited-edition treats? 
I think that’s a resolution I can keep!  January’s Butterscotch flavors sound to die for.
Did you hear? The epic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie is now part of the permanent lineup. While the Coffee Cake is my all-time favorite, this one is in the top 3! And, the original Peanut Butter Cold Brew is a must pairing.
What resolution will you set today? Go #MakeSomedayHappen 🎉 Happy New Year everyone!
#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very ch Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very chill night at @disneysprings. How about you?
I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
🦀 1st Stop: @paddlefishorl 
Steak Skewers
Crab Topped Fries 
Larceny Old Fashioned 
Capt Handsome - Cathead Vodka & Raspberry 
Mayan Empress - Santa Teresa Añejo Rum, pineapple
🍰 2nd Stop: @homecominfl 
Espresso Martini 
Carrot Cake 
☘️ 3rd Stop: @raglanroadpub 
Great entertainment! 
@guinnessus 
Great Irish Hooley Cocktail - so refreshing with strawberries & Prosecco 
🍪 Not pictured: we managed a stop at @gideonsbakehouse to pick up treats to start the new year!!! (They had a 2 second brief moment with no line around 11pm! I could not resist! I picked up a Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie which is now part of the year-round line up! I also got a slice of Golden Oreo cake and a PB Cold Brew to enjoy today! Starting 2023 off right… and not a diet 😂
We went early, had a great time and got home in time to watch the ball drop!!! 🎉
Wishing you all happiness and lots of delicious treats in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Load More... Follow on Instagram

What is Go Epicurista?

Your source for inspiration to take time out of your busy schedule and celebrate great food and wine experiences with friends everywhere you go! Let’s talk about Restaurants, Unique Events and Travel Experiences that belong on your “someday list.”

Don’t put off enjoying life with friends until someday. #MakeSomedayHappen Go Epicurista!

What does Epicurista mean?

Let’s Connect!

  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Let’s Work Together

Contact me if you’re interested in collaborating with Go Epicurista on special food and wine events, hospitality digital marketing and social media consulting, restaurant & event reviews, travel product reviews, or to create a customized Go Epicurista Insider Experience for your friends, clients or employees. The possibilities are endless!

Search

Recent Posts

  • Best Tequila Cocktails in Orlando
  • Best Ways to Celebrate 4th of July in Orlando
  • Twist on Elvis Sandwich For Elvis Movie Watch Party
  • Best Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day in Orlando
  • Downton Abbey: A New Era Movie Inspired Dinner Party Menu and Travel Fans Will Love

Copyright © 2023 GoEpicurista.com

 

Loading Comments...